Species details: Click on each item to see an explanation of that item (Note: opens a new window)

Succulent tree up to 9m tall with a bare trunk crowned with deeply divided branches. Branch segments conical-ovate with 3-6 solid winged ridges, much longer than wide. Ridges with paired spines; spine-shield joined to form a horny margin. Inflorescence yellowish-green on the terminal segments, bisexual. Fruit a 3-lobed capsule, dull red when ripe. See var. calidicola for comparison.